Chapter 16

It's only one meal. As I approach the restaurant's doors, I remind myself, "Just one."

But I'm not sure whether this is the last time I'll have to sit across from Ashton and pretend to be his willing little wifey. Nathan will, without a doubt, keep his commitment to negate Ashton's claim against me. I simply don't know when. Lupercalia isn't for another two weeks. Furthermore, I haven't heard from the king since the night we nearly...

I try not to worry about it as the maître d' guides me through the dimly lighted main floor to a round ivory leather seat. Ashton stands there, his coppery hair combed back and brushing against the collar of his pricey suit jacket. He smiles broadly, takes my hands, and kisses my cheek. "I almost gave up hope on you."

I really want you would. To avoid speaking it, I physically bite my tongue. "I apologize. On the way here, I got twisted around."

As we settle into our seats, he frowns. "You drove it yourself?"

"Mmhm," I confirm with a closed-lip smile